December Twelve

Birthday Greetings from Friends and Family

Happy birthday besee! Love yah! Tythug from ur loving besee.
Besee - 00:02:25

Happy birthday besee! God bless!
Besee - 01:56:06

Happy birthday!
Ms. Wena - 06:33:02

If GOD painted a beautiful rainbow as a sign of his love we must also paint a beautiful smile to start the day right. Have a happy birthday.
Besee - 07:28:28

Today as Angel Inaanak celebrate her birthday, help her oh Lord, her brothers and friends, to live for others, to achieve her goals, to fulfill Your plan for her life for your greater glory. Amen. :) Happy birthday angel inaanak! :) God loves you :) Payakap po :)
Nangni - 07:59:24

Happy birthday! How are you na? Miss ka na namin.
Ms. Rose - 08:13:09

Jing, happy birthday. Kamusta na ikaw?
Ms. Franz - 08:13:45

Love you po pretty angel inaanak :) Enjoy life for you are so loved by God! And He is more than enough :)
Nangni - 08:31:54

Happy birthday, more birthdays to come. Ano handa?
Tito Dan - 08:41:18

Happy birthday po.
Mark - 09:01:52

Happy birthday, Jing! I wish you good health, true happiness and peace of mind. Thanks for being so nice and humble. Stay pretty! Have more blessed years ahead! God bless.
Ate Mavie - 09:23:15

There are two greatest days in your life…
The day you were born,
And the day you’ll discover why…
Happy birthday!
Ate Girlie - 09:42:24

Hi Guads, how are you? I heard you got sick. Hope you’re doing ok especially today because it’s your special day. Happy, Happy Birthday! Take care and God bless!
Weng - 10:32:48

Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday
Happy birthday
Happy birthday to you!
Mwah! Mwah! Mwah!
Raciel - 10:43:58

Happy birthday Guadz!
Riza - 13:17:04

Jing, Happy birthday!
Tito Joel - 15:23:50

Pakner! Happy birthday!
Mej - 16:17:39

Advance happy birthday! Maligayang bati at Gratulerer meddagen (Norks!) :) ako pinaka-una for 2007! Hehe! :) Hope you’re better now!
Emily - 18:32:48

Hi Guads! Happy happy birthday! you still in the hospital? How are you na? Miss you na. Dito nako sa batangas.
Loids - 18:32:48

Ate Jing, kamusta ka na jan? Ayos ka na ba? At happy birthday nga pala. Love you!
Boy - 19:47:55

Besee – went out of her way to bring me a chocolate cake and a balloon arrangement. :)
Arlene – wrote this :) hehe! kala ko nakalimutan niya, kaya niremind ko na lang siya. Yun pala meron na nito ;D
Mama and Papa – cooked spag, maja, bopis, minatamis na macapuno and salad for me

~~~

Hay… ang sarap mag-birthday. :) At 20+ years old, I still believe that one’s birthday is an occasion that people really look forward to every year.

Based on experience there is a negative relationship between one’s age and the material gifts one receive. :) Though I really don’t mind. It’s not that I don’t like receiving gifts, I do. But the thoughtful greetings made by friends and relatives, as documented above, made more “impact” than any material gifts in the world because they are more heartfelt. And it made my heart a lot bigger.

Before my big day, I got sick and was confined for four days for doctor prescribed medicines that were a dose too high. For almost a week, I couldn’t even stand and eat without throwing up. I couldn’t even drink water. It had never occurred to me that the medicines I was taking then was the cause of everything until another doctor said that I should stop taking them. The next day, even though I was still nauseous, I could at least go to the comfort room on my own. Luckily, on Saturday the Doctor gave his go signal for me to go home, just in time for Carlo’s first birthday party.

I went back to the office on my birthday. I planned to work the day before, since we had to prepare for the Academicians Christmas Party, but I had to give in to my parent’s request to stay home and rest even for just a day.

It was a nice and thoughtful birthday so I decided to extend the celebration for a week until 19 December. The activities were just too great not to mention.

Dec. 14 – NAST Christmas Party
Dec. 16 – Simbang Gabi – with the SFC Choir at around 3am for the first mass
Date with Maciel, Raciel and Sarah at Pagsanjan and Los Baños, Laguna


Dec. 17 – SFC Choir Fellowship at Sampalok Lake, San Pablo City
Choir arrived at 1:00 in the morning
Slept at 3am
Woke up at 4am
Went to Sampalok Lake at 9:00am
Went biking until 11:00am
Had lunch at Inay’s at 12:30pm
Went home at 2:30pm
Singing session from 3:30-6:00pm
Departure from our place


Dec. 19 – Attended Mr. and Mrs. Devonshire’s wedding
Congratulations David and Tess! :) May your love flourish forever!

Christmas na!

33 days before Christmas!
On Sunday the first candle (violet) of the Advent of wreath will be lit.
I'm so super excited!
Grabe ngayon lang ulit ako naging excited na ganito. :)


Paglamig ng hangin

Pagalmig ng hanging hatid ng Pasko
Nananariwa sa 'king gunita
Ang mga nagdaan nating Pasko
Ang Noche Buena't Simbang gabi

KORO:
Narito na ang Pasko
At nangungulila'ng puso ko
Hanap-hanap, pinapangarap
Init ng pagsasalong tigib sa tuwa
Ng mag-anak na nagdiwang
Sa sabsaban n'ung unang Pasko

Sa pag-awit muli ng himig-Pasko
Nagliliyab sa paghahangad
Makapiling kayo sa gabi ng Pasko
Sa alaala'y magkasama tayo (KORO 2x)

Different parts and different hearts

by John Fischer

Why do we all have different passions? So everything that’s supposed to get done will get done.

Sometimes we get overwhelmed because we are constantly exposed to people with various passions for service, and when they represent their cause, they are so committed to that which has captured them that we feel guilty for not sharing their zeal. We seem indifferent in comparison.

… What we forget is that there are so many needs because there are so many of us to meet them. We aren’t supposed to get our bell rung by every appeal that comes by. We are a body made up of different parts and different hearts; we don’t have to all be moved by the same issues and needs.

This is where the concept and the practical nature of spiritual gifts come in. There are a variety of gifts and there are a variety of ministries, but the same Lord working in all and through all. No one has to do everything; no one can. It is up to us to find out where we fit and what God put us here to do. Soon you will be just as passionate about something because it’s your thing. This is the way it’s supposed to be. We only get frustrated when we forget this and try and take on everything, or get so overwhelmed that we take on nothing at all.

All of this should just make us marvel at the wisdom of God even more. He’s designed us all with different abilities and different interests so that we are not only good at what we do, we do not have to be frustrated or depressed over what we aren’t good at. When we all do our part in the Body of Christ, everyone gets a job, everyone gets honored, and everyone is important. That’s the way it’s supposed to be.

Super delayed post

November 1, 2006

"Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep;
And if I die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take."

~~~

Below is my email to Arlene on January 25, 2006 at 15:57, which also serves, as my draft last will and testament.

From: Guada
Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2006 15:57
To: Arlene
Subject: RE: labadadadadadadadadadada!

sakit lalamunan. mamamatay na.
yung mga books ko pakibigay lahat ke Gello.
yung comforter ko ke baby Carlo (kapatid ni Gello).
yung collection ko ng Beauty and the Beast, pakisabi, wag tatanggalin sa
kwarto ko.
yung mga earings ko and iba pang abubot sa katawan ke Mae-Mae kasi malandi
yun bata pa lang. isama mo na rin ang kokonti kong make-up.
wala ring tutulog sa bed ko.
wala ring gagamit ng mga unan ko (more than 10 yun!) KUNG HINDI mumultuhin ko sila.
yung palm pilot ko ke Gello din.
yung digicam ke Mama.
yung mga damit ko - ndi tatanggapin ng mga pinsan ko yun kasi below their
taste yun. gusto nila malalandi. pakisama na lang sa collection ko ng Beauty and
the Beast.
the VCDs -- mamili ka. the rest will go to Maciel.
audio cds kung me gusto ka, kunin mo na,
yung iba ke Ms. Cha kasi HANGAD yun eh - ndi mo type.
nana.
konti lang pala ang ari-arian ko dito sa mundong ibabaw.
ndi pala ako rich...
ayoko pa mamatay!
magiipon muna ako.

~~~

November 6, 2006

I don’t know if this is just hormones again (I really hope so) but I just feel sad and lonely and depressed.

Ayoko nang gumising sa umaga kasi papasok na naman ako sa office namin. Maghapon na naman akong papagalitan ng boss ko. Since June, hindi siya nagsasawang pagalitan ako ng pagalitan. I know I can do the job that I am tasked to do but there is no drive to do those things any more. Nawala na.

The only thing that brightens my day is the scheduled SFC meeting every Wednesday and Angking Tanglaw’s practices and mass services every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

Just yesterday, I was out of the house from 7:30 am to 10:00 pm attending five different meetings in four different venues. Grabe! Ang saya.

Our picture:

Covenant Orientation

~~~

In one of our household meetings, almost all of my ka-household commented that I am so secretive. Ha! Ngayon lang nila napansin. Ako dati pa. And I’m not proud of it. In fact I feel sad about it.

The truth is, I no longer know how to share myself to other people. Lately, there are only two individuals with whom I can tell almost everything, my mother and my former housemate. And I wanted to thank them both for sticking with me and for hearing me out when I feel like sharing.

Right now, I am forcing myself to talk to people again. I have to relearn the art of making friends, most especially the art of sharing one’s self.

Jess

I was watching the 6th season of Gilmore Girls since last week and i honestly don't like Logan for Rory - well Luke is just perfect for Lorelei. I keep on wondering about Dean and Jess.

Tapos! After a date with Logan and friends, she saw Jess lingering at her grandmother's lawn (or something). :) She invited Jess in and then...

JESS: And I didn't think you'd believe it if I didn't show it to you in person. [He pulls out a small book and hands it to her.]
RORY: Oh, color me curious. [She takes it.] A book. [She reads the cover.] The Subsect. Written by Jess Mariano. [She looks up at him, questioning.]
JESS: That's no misprint.
RORY: You wrote a book?
JESS: A short novel.
RORY: You wrote a book?
JESS: And through a fluke I got it to these guys that have a small press, and they read it, I don't know if they were high or something, but they decided to publish it!
RORY: You wrote a book.
JESS: There's no money in it. They only printed, like, five hundred of them. Believe me, I'm not quitting my day job.
RORY: But - you wrote it. You wrote a book. [She stands and flips through it.]
JESS: Yeah, I know, it's hard to believe.
RORY: You sat down and wrote a novel.
[...]
JESS: [laughing] Read it first. That way you can discourage people from buying it.
RORY: No way. I know it's good. Jess, you've got such a great brain. I knew that if you could just sit down and stop shaking it around you could do something like this. I knew it. I knew it.

~~~

[Rory runs after Jess.]
RORY: Jess, wait.
JESS [turns to her]: We shouldn't have done this.
RORY: He's just in a bad way lately.
JESS: He's a jerk!
RORY: He was. In there, definitely. I'm so sorry.
JESS: I read that guy the second I saw him. I should have begged off.
RORY: Well, I didn't want you to!
JESS: He'd better not come out here.
RORY: Please, Jess. He had a lot to drink. He's tired from traveling. This isn't him. I swear.
JESS: What the hell is going on?
RORY: I told you, he's tired! And his family's bugging him right now -
JESS: I mean, with you! What's going on with you?
RORY [stunned]: What do you mean?
JESS: You know what I mean! I know you. I know you better than anyone! This isn't you.
RORY: I don't know.
JESS [passionately]: What are you doing? Living at your grandparents' place? Being in the DAR? No Yale - why did you drop out of Yale?
RORY: It's complicated!
JESS: It's not! It's not complicated!
RORY [defensive]: You don't know!
JESS: This isn't you! This! You going out with this jerk, with the Porsche! We made fun of guys like this!
RORY: You caught him on a bad night.
JESS: This isn't about him! Okay? Screw him! What's going on with you? This isn't you, Rory. You know it isn't. What's going on?
[Rory is starting to get it. He looks at her, questioning.]
RORY [sincerely]: I don't know. [She looks around, thinking. She wraps her coat tightly around her.] I don't know.
[They look at each other for a moment.]
JESS [emotionally]: Okay, uh. Maybe, maybe we'll catch up at a better time. [He reaches out and rubs her elbow. He turns to leave. He stops at the gate and turns back.] Happy birthday, by the way. Wasn't that a couple weeks ago? Your birthday?
[Rory, still shocked, nods slightly. Jess smiles sadly and leaves. Rory watches him, then sighs. She narrows her eyes and marches inside.]

Transcript from: TWIZ TV - Gilmore Girls

Yup! I like Jess. Better than Dean and definitely better than Logan. :) Hay...

After the storm

I have been trying to write something since Friday the other week and up to now I only have scraps. I cannot seem to find the drive to write and describe what happened and yet I could feel my mind so full of them.

Exactly three weeks have passed since that fateful day when typhoon Milenyo (Xangsane) hit the country with a vengeance. According to PAG-ASA, Typhoon Milenyo, which had maximum winds of 130 kilometers per hour, was one of the worst typhoons that hit Luzon since Rosing (Angela) in 1995. So many things happened, so many lives were lost and countless properties were damaged.

I was alone in the boarding house when Typhoon Milenyo battered the country. For three long hours, I became busy mopping rainwater splashing from the window above my sink and cursing the house I was in. I flared up because besides the fact that my printer, TV and other things were getting wet and my little sala was accumulating water from the outside, there was no electricity. I was not aware or probably just refused to acknowledge that there were others whose problems did not ONLY consist of splashing water but also of flying roofs (in some cases the whole house went along with the roof), raging flood of mixed mud and water, land slides, and even death.

When I went out the next day, the sight broke my heart. Trees were uprooted and the usual forested area became unrecognizable. Unfortunately, this is just the tip of the iceberg.

News report said that death tolls reached 154 while the number of injured reached 246. A total of 73 people remained missing and are believed to be dead. The most number of deaths, mostly from drowning, were recorded in the CALABARZON area. Many declared their area to be in a state of calamity.

Providentially, like a relief from heaven, people from the different sectors of the society went out to share whatever was left with them and join hands in the cleaning and clearing up process.

I have always believed that things happen for a reason. From the very beginning God gave us the stewardship of this planet. He never said that we destroy or alter what He created. This was nature’s work - neither controllable nor preventable. Another proof that we are but part of the chain of life. And that everything moves along that certain path. What you have contributed or removed will soon be returned in any form possible, whether it is good or bad.

We, human beings are very much aware of this. Yet time and time again, we have become prisoners of our own intelligence and refrain ourselves from recognizing that the “return” could happen during our lifetime.

To others it was nature’s revenge, for me it was nature’s way of cleansing itself. In other words, homeostasis or the ability of nature to heal itself, on its own, without any help from the outside especially from us humans. Some things are for certain, though. The trees that were uprooted and the forest that were destroyed by the typhoon would soon be healed and be replaced by a more productive ecology, whether we like it or not, whether we extend out help or not.

And finally, in the midst of danger – with the winds howling and the storm raging, one has no choice but to humble him/herself. Amazingly, during times like this, the more spiritual side of us would resurface and would long for the love that is both gentle and strong. Praying is not just another option, but the only thing to do for He alone can stop the storm – both literally and figuratively.

P.S. Recovery may take some time, so let us continue to include in our prayers those who are severely affected by typhoon Milenyo.

~~~

The sight of the DOST compound after the storm broke my heart. Trees were uprooted and the usual forested compound became a common business area sight you would find in Metro Manila. Before kasi, trees conceal buildings from sight. Now, when you enter the compound, you’ll see the façade of at least three buildings.

I don’t know if I have mentioned this, but I have always been so proud of the DOST compound. From the inside you would never thought that it is located near the Bicutan exit / tollgate and South Luzon Expressway. Different trees exist in the compound and butterflies played the whole day. In the evening fireflies would accompany us as we walk from our building towards the gate.



Picture after September 28, 2006:



After the typhoon, Assistant Secretary Bravo issued a memorandum to all employees to participate in the clean up of the compound. Soldiers from the nearby Camp Bagong Diwa also helped in removing and cutting big tree trunks that fell on the road. And last Monday after the flag ceremony Secretary Alabastro mentioned that DENR is willing to provide seedlings for the replanting program of the DOST.

~~~

Three days after the typhoon, I went to Los Baños for the scheduled final exams (which was fortunately postponed). I could never describe the scene. Never. I don’t have the words. Probably it would be better if you visit Arlene for the link to the pictures. I only have this to remind me of that once beautiful tree beside the Admin building.



When I asked my former teacher what happened, he said, “Grabe ang nangyari. We were not expecting it […] however, there’s a good news, the famous tree is still there.” He was referring to the Fertility tree.

~~~

It seems that every person I meet assigned him or herself the task of finding me a mate. Just yesterday, my “kinda tsismosang” neighbor mentioned that my landlord is pairing his son to me. Please note that I only talk to them when:

1. I am paying the rent, water and electricity, and
2. I am buying from their store.

I have not had any long or personal conversation with any of them. Grabe na ito! My officemates are doing the same. Each one has his/her bet. Eh nasaan na nga ba sila ngayon?! Everybody’s playing the role of a match maker, e bakit wala pa rin?! Nagtatanong lang po. :) I am not complaining PERO parang ganun na din yun!

Anyway, I am focusing on something different now. Bahagya ko munang isinantabi yang bagay na yan. I’ll get back to it when the right time comes. :)

~~~

For those who are also searching-slash-waiting-slash-whatever, may I recommend this:

Bo’s Book entitled:
How To Find Your One true Love
by Bo Sanchez

Yeah I know the title is a bit mushy. But be prepared. After reading the book, almost all of your romantic theories would be – and let me quote - “shattered into pieces”. So beware :)

Neighbors in the real world

I used to live with my cousin in Quezon City. In all the four years that I stayed there, never had I experienced going out of our compound and had people recognized and smiled at me. I only know the people I know there because I *need* to know them.

Samantalang dito sa Bicutan, two years pa lang ako, I already know people, sometimes even their family members.

I did not go out of the house the whole day Saturday. Hapon na lang because I had to attend a meeting. Paglabas ko, nakita ko yung may ari ng tindahan dun sa tapat. Kausap yung may ari ng tindahan sa tabi. They both smiled at me. Konting lakad pa, the lady who owns the photocopy saw me and smiled. Lakad pa ulit ng konti, sa kanto I saw a friend there – friend na kasi chika na kami. Nagkasabay kami minsan sa tricycle but before that incident every time we see each other we exchange small talks. Yung kuya niya ang official taga-repair ng computer ko, yung wife ng kuya niya ang tutor ng brother ko.

When I got back from the meeting, I bought food dun sa canteen near my house. The owner/cook once helped me arrange my things, nanlaglag kasi. Kaya friends na rin kami.

They are those who make my day a little bit brighter. Though at times they can be very annoying and noisy but that’s life eh, you cannot have everything. They are kind and polite to me naman whenever we see each other. Sometimes even if I’m not in the mood to socialize, once they smile and say, “kamusta?” I end up smiling all the way to wherever I’m suppose to go. And I feel welcome – naku, knock on the wood ha, at baka mabaliktad.

Last night, I realized that if ever I would transfer to another place, it would be somewhere where I would really really want to go and stay. Kasi kung hindi, I would rather stay here kahit gaano pa siguro kalayo ang work place ko.

Fix you

Coldplay

When you try your best but you don't succeed
When you get what you want but not what you need
When you feel so tired but you can't sleep
Stuck in reverse

and the tears come streaming down your face
when you lose something you can't replace
when you love some one but it goes to waste
could it be worse?

Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you

High up above or down below
When you're too in love to let it go
But if you never try you'll never know
Just what you're worth

Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you

Tears stream down your face
When you lose something you cannot replace
Tears stream down your face
And I

Tears stream down your face
I promise you I will learn from my mistakes
Tears stream down your face
And I

Lights will guide you home
And ignite your bones
And I will try to fix you.

Au revoir

Ate Helen will be leaving for Cebu soon. When she invited me to dinner with other Lisieux members at Glorietta last week, I did not think twice. I immediately said, “Yes, I’ll be there.” This was kind of unusual since I rarely go out at night. But in this case, I did not have any qualms in meeting them.

Ate Helen was the Minister (President) when I entered Lisiuex in 1997. During my second year as a member, she chose me to be part of the outreach committee (she was the head). It was the committee assigned in the preparation for the annual concert. In the middle of the school year, she entrusted the position to Mej and me due to her unexpected busy schedule. Nakakatuwang isipin that she believed in us even though we were just a couple of new members. With her guidance, the concert that year went well.

There was a time when I was pondering if I would attend the Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS) or not. So I asked for a sign – that someone would give me yellow flower/s. The night before the registration date she dropped by our house and gave me a bunch of yellow mums, she said, it was for good luck for the coming exam week. It was my sign. I attended the LSS and was blessed.

After graduation, she took time to reply to my questions regarding faith. She sent me long emails explaining the answers to my questions. Last August, she passed the Medical Board Exam and will be going to Cebu next week to live there permanently (?).

I would just like to write this down because I wanted to remember things. From high school through College, there are three people whom I would always remember for their kindness: Sr. Yel, Kuya Ram and Ate Helen. I hope I would be able to meet the other two in the future.

~~~

The above entry was written a few days ago.

We had dinner at Cafe Bola located at Greenbelt 3. Siyempre we have pictures :)

~~~

In a matter of three weeks, four people I know died.

The father of my former boss died of massive heart attack last August 28; the person who used to hold the position I am currently occupying died of cancer of the pancreas last September 1; the owner of the sari-sari store in front of my former boarding house died of heart attack last September 4 and just last Friday, my former math teacher died of diabetes.

My initial thought was, “Gosh, people are leaving.”

We Christians were assured when the Son ascended to heaven that death is not the end but rather the beginning of life with the Creator. In the article entitled, “The Secret of the Poor Souls in Purgatory,” Maria Simma of Austria, having given the chance to communicate with these souls, once asked them if they would rather go back to earth to gain enough (goodness) to cleanse their souls. They answered, “No,” because they have seen the greatness of God’s love and would never even want to be away from it again.

I am not sad that they died. My sadness belongs to those who were left behind. I am glad that finally they would be able to meet the one true perfect and wonderful God in the glory of His paradise.

Looking forward to meeting you there. :)

Eternal Rest grant unto them O Lord
And let perpetual light shine upon them.
May they rest in peace... Amen.

~~~

Sorry, pero umiinit na ang ulo ko.
it's already 1 in the morning and I am still here in the office, finishing something.
And it's not even my event.

So tired.

SFC@WAR

It was another night to remember as the SFC-Bicutan family welcomed 21 more brothers and sisters during the Lord’s Day celebration on 2 September 2006 at the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish, Bicutan. The celebration culminated the 15-week Christian Life Program (CLP), which started on 27 May 2006.

Compared to previous CLPs, this year was a special one as the community celebrated the Lord’s Day with a theme, the SFC at War Against Regression or SFC@WAR. The evening was highlighted by the presence of Mr. Jayson Mira, Chapter Head, who delivered the welcome remarks to the group. His message focused on the activities of the community beyond CLP as he challenged each and everyone to participate and continue the WAR.

Of the 21 graduates, brothers dominated the group as their number reached 13 while the sisters reached eight. The newest batch of Bicutan graduates include: Brothers: Allan Altamera (Al), Orbel Camoy (Orbel), June Cuenca (June), Nestro Gulfre (Shane), Rene Roldan (Choi), Preciouso Aclon (Jay R), Richard Joseph Alcazaren (RJ), Denver Deomampo (Dhenz), Eped Hibionada (Phed), Roxly Taguinod (RT), Jay Ar Dela Cruz (Jay-Ar), Eddie Ruedas (Ed), and Ryan Usman (Ayan); Sisters: Ana Linda Abaigar (Ana), Angelita Amazona (Angie), Sherly Tagulao (She), Jenna Mae Alcazaren (Jeann), Nemia Cabrera (Nemz), Apricelda Dela Cruz (April), Raquel Nava (Raquel), and Rona Subrado (Ron Ron).

The celebration was also graced by the presence of Brothers and Sisters from Hagunoy, Signal and Tenement who joined in welcoming the new members.

Not yet...

Author Unknown
Sep 7, 2006

Sometimes I ask the question, "My Lord, is this your will?"
It's then I hear you answer me, "My Precious Child ... be still."

Sometimes I feel frustrated, cause I think I know what's best.
It's then I hear you say to me, "My Busy Child ... just rest"

Sometimes I feel so lonely and I think I'd like a mate.
Your still small voice gets oh so clear and says, "My Child ... please
wait"

"I know the plans I have for you, the wondrous things you'll see;
If you can just be patient, Child, and put your trust in me.

I've plans to draw you closer. I've plans to help you grow.
There's much I do you cannot see and much you do not know.

But know This, Child ..... I LOVE YOU. You are Precious unto Me.
Before I formed you in the womb, I planned your destiny.

I've something very special I hope for you to learn.
The gifts I wish to give to you are gifts you cannot earn.

They come without a price tag, but not without a cost;
at Calvary, I gave My Son, so You would not be lost.

Rest Child, and do not weary of doing what is good.
I promise I'll come back for you just like I said I would.

Your name is written on my palm, I never could forget;
Therefore, do not be discouraged when my answer is... "Not Yet"

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, we ask You to guide us as we pray for your guidance. May
your love shine on us, so that it we may reflect our trust for You to
others.

from:
"F O O D F O R T H O U G H T" group
To subscribe: subscribe@dailyfoodforthought.org

Preliminary list

As early as September I'm going to post my wishlist :)
Madadagdagan pa as time goes by. For the mean time ito muna :)

Album of:

Sitti Navaro
Caffe Bossa

Apo Hiking Society
Kami nAPO Muna (Tribute To Apo Hiking Society)

Gary Valenciano
Relevance, Still Connected With The Times

Agot Isidro
The Island

Di pa kumpleto yan. :)

~~~

Just finished a report, almost done with another and will start a new one tomorrow.

Hihi! :)

Downd... down... down

Nalulungkot ako.
Monday na naman.
I'm really not happy here at work...
maghapon na lang ako napagalitan.
Kahit yung mga walang karapatang magalit,
nagagalit.
hay...
I just feel so down.

Prepare The Way

BER na!!!

114 days before Christmas!

yeah!
yeah!
yeah!

:)

~~~

Prepare The Way
V1:

He has come to bring light into the darkness
He has come to bring freedom to the captives
He has come to restore the broken hearted
It's time to proclaim the year of the Lord

Refrain:

Prepare the way
Prepare the way for our redeemer
Prepare the way
Prepare the way for our restorer
Make ready your heart
Make ready your home
Make ready the people of God
Prepare the way

V2:

He has come to bring hope to the hopeless
He has come to comfort all who mourn
He has come to heal our every sickness
It's time to proclaim the year of the Lord

Update

Grabe! Mid-August na at wala pa rin akong kahit isang finished report.

Arrrrgh!

I have to prepare six (!) reports in two different subjects and one extra subject from a different institution. Feeling ko nga nagpapanic ako kaya hindi na rin ako makagawa. The "fear of fear itself" sabi nga.

Anyway, I'm planning to post some pictures of Carlo here. Hindi ko pa lang naayos. I'm on a blog leave* till further notice.

* Got the term somewhere. To whoever coined the word, borrow ko po muna.

~~~

Ay, pahabol!

I’m looking for these books:



If you know where I could buy them, please, inform me.

Thank you :)

PGMA and DevCom

President GMA should really really study Development Communication.

While reading my DevC 208 module (Social Marketing and Social Mobilization) I came across these three trends and definitions of development. Allow me to share:

(copied verbatim)
1. Development must be PEOPLE-CENTERED - The aim of development must be the improvement of the quality of life of human beings, not improvements in economic production.

2. Development must be PARTICIPATORY - In order to realize development, concerted efforts from the government and the grassroots are needed.

3. Development must be SUSTAINABLE - True development doesn’t sacrifice tomorrow’s resources for the sake of today’s needs.

Am I loved or what?

Natutuwa naman ako sa mga kapatid ko.

Last Sunday, while reading the messages in Gian’s cell phone (he allows me to read his messages sometimes), he showed me the picture of his current girlfriend. Pretty, if I may say so.

Then he added in a very casual manner: “Ikaw ang gusto kong unang ma-meet niyan. Naku Ate, pag nakita mo siya, super ganda, super bait, yada-yada…” The usual praises dedicated only to his girlfriends – including the previous ones. I know kasi narinig ko na yun na sinabi niya before.

Then last night, my other brother, Jay-jay asked if I’d be staying over at our house during the weekend. I said, “No, I’ll be going home. Why?”

To which he replied: “Ay sayang, may ipapakilala pa naman sana ako sa’yo. Friend ko. Ang name eh: girl’s name. Taga UP din siya… yada-yada…”

~~~

They are my brothers. I feel honored that they want me to meet their special someone. Nakakataba ng puso na kahit inaaway ko sila minsan-minsan (?) I can still feel that they love me and that I am important to them. :)

Lost books

I am currently reading Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown at hindi ko pa rin tapos hanggang ngayon. Haven’t finished any Brown book yet. Kahit Angels and Demons ndi ko pa rin tapos, nasa gitna na ako, but I cheated kaya I lost interest. Have the attention span of a two year-old. Ang daling madistract. Dan Brown is really an excellent writer. Well researched talaga ang books niya. However, I don’t like what he's imparting. Pero siyempre kanya-kanyang opinion yan - to each his own. Tatapusin ko pa ring basahin yun. :)

But…

In just a day, I finished reading Acts of Faith by Erich Segal.

I found a copy of the book the other night at SM book sale. I had a copy of it before. “Before” kasi I lost it almost two years ago. Buti na lang nakakita ulit ako kasi kahit sa National Bookstore, wala. Mas nauna ko pa siyang natapos basahin kesa sa kay Dan Brown.

By the way, ilang Erich Segal na bang book ang nawawala ko dahil sa mga nanghihiram sakin na hindi na isinosoli? Hay… madami-dami na rin. Dalawa – madami yun noh? More than one! Yun dalawa pang pinaka paborito ko sa lahat ng sinulat niya. Yung Love Story and Acts of Faith.

Sayang yung Love Story. It was a gift from my beloved housemates on my 17th birthday. With matching dedication pa yun! Tapos, hiniram ng neighbor ko tapos naiwala niya. Until now, I still couldn’t find the heart to buy a new one kasi naalala ko pa rin yung nawala.

Hindi lang Erich Segal, Og mandino din. I lost my copy of Christ Commission. Kasi my former housemate borrowed it. Sayang talaga!

The Hilario sisters introduced Segal to me. And I already have these: Love Story (lost), Oliver Story, The Class, Prizes, The Doctors and Acts of Faith.

On the other hand, John partly introduced Og Mandino to me. Yun ang legacy niya sakin – kaya salamat na rin at nakilala ko siya. I have several Mandino books – Christ Commission (lost), The Greatest Salesman in the World 1 and 2, The Twelfth Angel, Secrets for Success and Happiness, The Greatest Mystery in the World, etc.

These are just few on my list of “lost books”. Marami pang books na nawawala. Hindi ko na maalala yung iba.

Kahit nga yung 1st book of Sweet Dreams entitled P.S. I Love You that was given to me by my Tita Ann, nawala na rin.

Sayang! Sayang! Sayaaaaaaaaaaang! Tsk! Tsk!

Bo's advice

Don't throw away the 90% that you already have!
By: Bo Sanchez

ADULTERY happens when you start looking for what you don't have.

“Bo, this girl in my office is a real looker,” many husband will say.

“But it's not her Wynona Rider features that got me, I'm head over heels with her because she's also understanding, intelligent, tender – so many things that my wife is not.”

Guys, trust me on this. Somewhere along the way, you'll find a woman who will be more charming, more alluring, more thoughtful, richer, a better cook, have a great sex appeal, more efficient housekeeper and you will find a woman who will need you and pursue you and look over you more than your wife ever did. Because no wife is perfect! Because a wife will only have 90% of what you're looking for. So adultery takes place when a husband looks for the missing 10%.

Let's say your wife is melancholic by nature. You may find yourself drawn to the pretty clerk whos has a cherry laugh no matter what she says: “I broke my arm yesterday, ha...ha...ha...” or because you wife is a homebody in slippers and pajamas, smelling of garlic and fish oil, you may fall for a fresh-smelling young sales representatives that visits your office in a sharp black blazer, high heels, and a red pencil-cut skirt. Or because your wife is the quite type (a rare find), your heart may skip a beat when you meet an old college flame who has the makings of a talk show host like Oprah.

But wait! That's only 10% of what you don't have.

Don't throw away the 90% that you already have!

That's not all. Add to your wife's 90% the 1000% that represents all the years that you have been with each other. The storms you have weathered together. The unforgettable moments of sadness and joy as a couple. The many adjustments you have made to love the other. The wealth of memories that you've accumulated as lovers.

Adultery happens when you start looking for what you don't have. But faithfulness happens when you start thanking God for what you already have.

But I'm not just talking about marriage, I'm talking about life! About your jobs, your friends, your prayer groups, your lifestyles.

Are you like the economy airline passenger that perennially peeks through the door of the firt class cabin, obsessed with what he's missing? “They have got more leg room! Of my, their food is served in porcelain! Wow, their seats recline at an 80% angle and they've got personal videos!” I guarantee you'll be miserable for the entire trip!

Don't live your life like that. Forget about what the world says is first class. (Do you know that there are many first class passengers who are miserable in first class – because they're not riding in a private Lear Jet?)

My main message: If you start thanking God for what you have right now, wherever you are.....is first class! You have wealth under your nose, thank Him.

“Let's pray to God that we be blessed with a grateful heart and thankful attitude all the time.”

“ADULTERY HAPPENS WHEN YOU START LOOKING FOR WHAT YOU DON'T HAVE.....BUT FAITHFULNESS HAPPENS WHEN YOU START THANKING GOD FOR WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE.”

A simple reminder

Please click: Parents Wish

New template

I'll settle for this. :)
The template I used yesterday’s too girly and too flowery for me.

Ito na lang munang "Nautica" courtesy of Blogger Templates until I find a “beauty and the beast” template.

On independence and cockroaches

Independence has always been an issue with my family.

At 26, I can still feel their influence on everything I do. For them, I am still a kid.

Nakakalungkot. I just moved in to a new house and they insisted that my brother would accompany me. I chose a smaller house para kapag mag-isa lang ako, ndi ako matatakot kung gigising man ako in the wee hours of the morning to study. Tapos ngayon, may kasama pa rin ako. Kung hindi siguro ako nag-insist on where to put my things, siguro sila pa rin ang nasunod kung saan-saan dapat nakalagay mga gamit ko. Nakakainis. Kawawa tuloy brother ko kasi siya napapagbuntunan ko.

In addition to this is the fact that the new house is insect infested (cockroaches and mosquitoes and ants). Kung beauty at beauty lang din ang pag-uusapan mas (as in MAS) maganda dito sa new house. I was just not expecting it to be full of insects. Pag hindi umalis itong mga ipis na ito after kong maglagay ng screen and sprayed Baygon (or Raid daw sabi ng nanay ko – though I prefer Baygon) alis na lang ulit ako… :( I have to find a new house, insect / rat free.

Daydreaming

I have a new career goal.
If I will not to become an environmental consultant/specialist
(naks! ang taas ng pangarap ko! :)
then I will take up MA Psychology and
pursue a career in counseling.
I want to get in touch with people and their feelings.
Hindi career counseling ha...
Ay pwede na rin pala career counseling. :)

nangangarap lang... :)

Help!

I am looking for any information regarding this:
Southern Luzon Giant Cloud Rat (Phloeomys cumingi)
Banahao Forest Frog (Platymantis banahao)

Kindly inform me naman of any URL/book/journal that would provide thorough discussion / sufficient info such as habitat, food, social behavior, etc. of this amphibian.

Badly needed. Thank you po.

Trading My Sorrows

Darryl Evans

I'm trading my sorrow
I'm trading my shame
I'm laying them down for the joy of the Lord
I'm trading my sickness
I'm trading my pain
I'm laying them down for the joy of the Lord

And we say yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes, Lord
Yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes, Lord
Yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes, Lord. Amen

I'm pressed but not crushed
persecuted not abandoned
Struck down but not destroyed
I'm blessed beyond the curse
for His promise will endure
And His joy's gonna be my strength

Though the sorrow may last for the night
His joy comes with the morning...

My cousins and me

I have so much to be thankful for. One of them would be for having given the chance to see my beloved brothers and cousins grow up into beautiful persons.

Pissed!

I saw an old friend last Sunday. And while waiting for the food we ordered, we had an opportunity to talk and update each other. I don’t know how to say this in a nice way but to put it bluntly; I really was not so thrilled to see her. She left me bothered and irritated.

She used to be a very good friend of mine during college. We live in the same city and basically have the same circle of friends. During our first few years in college, we were inseparable - like twin sisters.

However, we drifted apart when I graduated. I am partly to blame because of my busy schedule. Actually I don’t know what happened… we were less than ten in our house (they were my housemates) and ever since I went out of college, I have communications naman with our other housemates who are located (and continuously moving) all over the country (Cebu, Cavite, Cotabato, Bukidnon, Laguna and etc.).

We still try to rekindle our friendship by seeing each other every now and then. After which we would promise to communicate and see each other more often. But after a while, wala na naman.

Lately, I noticed that whenever we see each other, there is this pattern of questions and responses that she would follow which would definitely leave my emotions jumbled. First, she would ask me how I am and then talks about the one person I am trying very hard to forget.

Sad, because during those times when I really needed her the most, she was nowhere to be found. She even told me that she was invited to have dinner with him and the girl. Imagine?! Tapos ngayon, tuwing magkikita kami, kukuwentuhan niya ako ng kung ano-ano. And mind you I am not asking her to tell me those things! I am just so pissed that’s why I am writing this. Yes, I am really affected. Why can’t you just keep those things to yourself? Can’t you be a little bit sensitive?

Hay… :(

Baby Carlo

Baby Carlo was welcomed into the Christian world by the whole family last June 11, 2006. The little curly guy was so cute everybody just loved him. :)



A week after, he learned a new trick … he can now literally put his foot in his mouth :) and suck it!

Words of wisdom

Ten Things to Remember When Your Feelings Have Been Trampled On
By: Donna Fargo

1. Whether it’s a family member, somebody at work, or your best friend who’s hurt you badly, put yourself in their shoes and treat them the way you would want to be treated, even if they don’t deserve it.

2. If you’ve heard something you didn’t want to hear, remember it may not be 100% true. So lighten up. If it’s not urgent, put off thinking about it for a couple of days. Forgive the person who wronged you; don’t forget, you’re doing this for yourself, too. Prove to yourself that you can practice what you believe. Try to be as understanding of others as you would want them to be of you.

3. There will always be losers and winners. Act according to how you want to feel about yourself when all is said and done. Don’t judge what others do if you don’t want them to judge you.

4. Remember, what other people do is their responsibility. Don’t let them cause you to carry a grudge and let their actions weigh you down. They are not responsible for your actions, no matter what they do. You are.

5. If someone has said something untrue about you or done something intentionally to hurt you, wish good things for that person – even if you don’t feel like it. Ask for them what you desire for yourself, and it will draw those things to you.

6. If you’ve made a mistake or disappointed yourself or others, apologize quickly and earnestly; that’s all you can do. Let your remorse teach you how to have compassion for others when they make mistakes. Nobody’s perfect, even though we all try to be. If someone can’t accept your apology, that’s okay, too. Just do the right thing and go on.

7. Talk less and listen more; you could learn something about others and about yourself. If you feel like yelling, go outside and throw rocks on the cement instead. Take a walk or, better yet, sing . . . it will put a melody back in your life.

8. If you think someone is making fun of you or someone you love, disarm them, not with your fist, but with your best smile. Give them something they don’t know how to give. Speak to them; be bold. Ask that they be blessed and you’ll be blessed, too. Forgiveness is a powerful thing; it will help your body and soul. Don’t let anyone cause you to act the way they’ve acted toward you, and remember that they have a right to do whatever they choose also.

9. Don’t hide your hurts and pains and feelings inside where they will harden your heart. Use common sense and understanding to process them. Don’t react just from your feelings; respond with maturity rather than childish habit. You won’t regret it.

10. Get in touch with the person you want to be and become that. Listen to your heart… you can find the answer there to every question you have. Remember, no matter how you’re treated, just treat others the way you would want to be treated when your feelings are getting trampled on.

My Johari's Window

Kindly click: Interactive Johari Window

Thank you ! :)

The one at Sta. Lucia (Dolores, Quezon)

As promised here are some of the pictures:

Iba't-ibang kwento

As kids, my brothers and I rarely had any disagreement on what TV shows to watch. We particularly like cartoons and good adventure/science fiction programs. Except for WBC wrestling and Mr. Bean (their favorite and my most hated), we agreed on almost anything shown on TV. From Powerpuff Girls to Kimpossible to Justice League, Batman Beyond to Dragon Ball Z to Inuyasha and Fruit Basket. Name it, we watch it.

However, my all time favorites are: Batman and X-men, for individual and group category respectively.

Batman because he has the capability to get out of any sticky situation (as most super heroes does) without the aid of any superhuman powers, a charcteristic that is recognizably his. He only use his high-tech stuffs – bat belt, bat mobile and the likes – to fight criminals.

As for the X-men, I mainly like the characters and their very unique (siyempre, mutants nga eh) abilities followed by the nice plot.

~~~

When the Uncanny X-men was first shown on TV more than a decade ago, Cyclopes was my first favorite because of his romance with Jean. But then there was this one episode where they featured Wolverine and his life story.

The episode showed how he got his adamantium claws and skeleton and why he had to kill his fiance Lady Mariko Yashida, who was poisoned by Reiko, to relieve her from the pain of slow death caused by the toxin. (wikipedia)

I got this phrase from that episode: “Open your heart where it hurts so much to see the world with your eyes.”

From then on, I became his fan.

~~~

The other night I watched the movie X-men: The Last Stand. I liked it so much; it put a stop on my blog-writing hibernation.

For those who don’t want spoilers, stop reading and visit someone else’s page. For those who already watched the movie or want to have a glimpse of it, read on.

~~~

I wasn’t really shocked when Professor Xavier died. One of my officemates carelessly mentioned it hours before I watched the film. However, what shocked me was the way he died. Jean Grey’s other self, the Phoenix, killed him. It surprised me for once because I know Jean Grey had a lot of untapped mind powers/potentials but what I didn’t know was that she was THAT powerful (level 5 – imagine!).

And then there was Wolverine.

It is a known fact that Wolverine loves Jean Grey. What broke my heart was, of all the characters in the movie, he was the one who was “tasked” to kill her. It was really sad.

~~~

Isa pang kwento…

I bought a complete set of the Korean Telenovela “The Wonderful Life” =D Corny na kung corny pero ang favorite ko ay si… Min Do Huyn. Ang nice ng smile grabe! :)

~~~

Another kwento…

How do you spend a great summer weekend? Mine would be to spend it with my family and friends.

The Angking Tanglaw Choir (SFC Bicutan) spent a weekend at our place (Alaminos, Laguna) last May 20-21, 2006. We are not used to having visitors sleep at our house kaya nakakatuwa nung samin sila natulog :).

We arrived at my place at 11 pm, had dinner and slept at around 2am. We woke up at around 6am the next day. My parents and brother accompany us to Sta. Lucia (at the foot of Mt. Banahaw, Dolores Quezon) for the fellowship.

Anyway, will post the pictures tomorrow :)

Title: to follow

I don't have the drive to write about anything these days.
More appropriately, I don't like my whines to take over this blog.
Kaya... Kakanta na lang muna ako.

"Be not afraid. I go before you always.
Come follow me, and I will give you rest."

Journey

Angela Zhang

It's a long long journey
Till I know whera I'm supposed to be
It's a long long journey
And I don't know if I can believe
When shadows fall and block my eyes
I am lost and know that I must hide
It's a long long journey
Till I find my way home to you

Many days I've spent
Drifting on through empty shores
Wondering what's my purpose
Wondering how to make me strong

I know I will falter I know I will cry
I know you'll be standing by my side
It's a long long journey
And I need to be close to you

Sometimes it feels no one understands
I don't even know why
I do the things I do
When pride builds me up till I can't see my soul
Will you break down these walls and pull me through

Cause It's a long long journey
Till I feel that I am worth the price
You paid for me on calvary
Beneath those stormy skies

When Satan mocks and friends turn to foes
It feel like everything is out to make me lose control
It's a long long journey
Till I find my way home to you.

I ask you... how?

“How do you pick up the threads of an old life? How do you go on, when in your heart you begin to understand there is no going back. There are some things that time can not mend. Some hurts that go too deep... that have taken hold.”

~Frodo

The Return of the King
Lord of The Rings 3

Circle of life

I am convinced that many times, in the course of our lives, God challenges us with a golden opportunity, a seemingly impossible hurdle, or a terrible tragedy . . . and how we react - or fail to react - determines the course of our future, almost as if we were involved in some sort of heavenly chess game... with our destiny always in the balance.

Og Mandino
A Better Way to Live

Remember this entry:

Hay… I've laid out my plans to Him. But it seems that He wants to make some revisions.

I prayed so hard for Him to give me a new job that would help me develop as a person.

Well... he gave me this:
A text message from Ms. Tata, my former immediate supervisor, that says:

Hi Guads! Are you happy with your work? Just thought you might want to go back to ---. I'm looking for a marketing and alumni relations' assistant. You might be interested.

If you saw me after I received this, you might conclude that I am really crazy. I cannot wipe the smile off my face! My thoughts? Grabe! God must be joking/teasing me. :)

It is as if, he just let me take another route that would just lead me back to the main road again. A complete circle - He made me smile.

After everything... hay... another move in the chessboard of life. I'm sure He is waiting for my next move. Well then Lord, lead the way!

~~~

I believe that each of us has a purpose to be fulfilled in life.

Arlene concluded that our purpose for each other is done.
We were given the chance to be housemates because almost two years ago, we each needed a friend for support.
We both lost a loved one.
Now that the initial shock is over, our purpose was served.
Thus, we will not be housemates any more. :)

So, good luck girl! :) Albeit still envious, I am very happy for you!

You’re going back. Complete the circle this time.

A journey to the recent past

Last night while watching the movie ‘Till there was you, a film that featured Piolo Pascual and Judy Ann Santos, I mentioned to Arlene that it had been almost three years since we first saw it.

I remember because I posted something about it in my other blog. To prove, I visited the site and copied this:

last thursday, arlene & i went out to watch “till there was you.”

the film can be considered as, if not great, a decent one as it, according to Arlene, “surpasses my expectation for a small laugh.”

the plot was simple and yet in every change of scene you’ll be expecting for more.

sobrang nakakatawa si judy-ann :) I don’t think anybody could portray Joanna’s role as effectively as she did - not even claudine (got to believe, 2002).

posted by guada gurl at Saturday, May 03, 2003

On the same page, I found this:

when a fire in a form of a water cannot quench the thirst of another fire, should they be separated?

what if the fire in the form of a water was left behind by the fire, will it die down on it's own?

or will it survive until another element comes along?

maybe…but not sure, never been and never will be.

posted by guada gurl at Saturday, May 03, 2003

Well, to put an end to the story, the fire left and the fire in the form of water found out the answer to her questions. I am pleased to inform you that she survived and is very much alive right now. :)

me...

sad. :'(

Green with envy

Waaaaaaaaa!
I don't care whether it's wrong to be jealous or not
but I have to say this...
Inggit ako ke Arlene!
Super inggit!
Waaaaaaaaaa!
She's going back to eLBi!
Why?! Oh why, am I not yet back to my beloved place?!
Everybody's finding a reason to go back!
Why coudn't I find one?
Bakit ako ndi pa rin???!
Waaaa! Inggit talaga ako...
:(

*hikbi*

Amateur seeker

It's official.
I am now looking for a new job...
It's really a pity I have to leave what I have right now. Kung kelan pa naman natututunan ko nang mahalin ang trabaho ko (meaning, I don't have to ask around anymore regarding processes). Kung kelan pa naman I’ve found a community that I’m beginning to love. Kaya lang, I can't take the insults and the power trippings anymore.

I am targeting this one very special position... please pray for me.

Hay… I’ve laid out my plans to Him. But it seems that He wants to make some revisions. Ok lang naman with me. I just hope that in the process, He is tightly hugging/embracing me. Para naman me cushion, if ever I fall…

~~~

Anyway, on a totally different topic…
Hindi ko na matiis, kakanta muna ulit ako ng… :)

Dadaanin sa Panalangin
Jimmy Bondoc

Tila ba dapat huwag ng umasa pa
At tila ba dapat nang kalimutan ka
Mabigat ang kalaban sa pag-ibig mo
At tila ba kailangang mapansin mo pa ako

Dahil kasama nga sa buhay natin ang mabigo
Kaya ano mang pasya'y gagalangin ko
Ituturing bahagi na ng paglago
Ngunit hangga't di naririnig sayong mga labing ako'y bigo

Ikaw ay dadaanin sa panalangin
Dadaanin hanggang maawa ka sa'kin
Dadaanin sa panalangin

*sigh*

Magdalena ng Canossa

How I wish high school na lang ako...
Para simple na lang ang lahat.

~~~

She's our patron saint in high school...
the one whose mission is "to make Christ known and loved."


St. Magdalen of Canossa
(1774-1835)

Wealth and privilege did nothing to prevent today’s saint from following her calling to serve Christ in the poor. Nor did the protests of her relatives, concerned that such work was beneath her.

Born in northern Italy in 1774, Magdalen knew her mind—and spoke it. At age 15 she announced she wished to become a nun. After trying out her vocation with the cloistered Carmelites, she realized her desire was to serve the needy without restriction. For years she worked among the poor and sick in hospitals and in their homes and among delinquent and abandoned girls.

In her mid-twenties Magdalen began offering lodging to poor girls in her own home. In time she opened a school, which offered practical training and religious instruction. As other women joined her in the work, the new Congregation of the Daughters of Charity emerged. Over time, houses were opened throughout Italy.

Members of the new religious congregation focused on the educational and spiritual needs of women. Magdalen also founded a smaller congregation for priests and brothers. Both groups continue to this day.

She died in 1835. Pope John Paul II canonized her in 1988.

Saint of the Day content provided by AmericanCatholic.org

Midnight person

You Are Midnight

You are more than a little eccentric, and you're apt to keep very unusual habits. Whether you're a nightowl, living in a commune, or taking a vow of silence - you like to experiment with your lifestyle. Expressing your individuality is important to you, and you often lie awake in bed thinking about the world and your place in it. You enjoy staying home, but that doesn't mean you're a hermit. You also appreciate quality time with family and close friends.

What Time Of Day Are You?

Water naman ngayon...

Your Element Is Water

A bit of a contradiction, you can seem both lighthearted and serious. That's because you're good at going with the flow - but you also are deep. Highly intuitive, you tune in to people's emotions and moods easily. You are able to tap into deep emotional connections and connect with others. You prefer a smooth, harmonious life - but you can navigate your way around waves. You have a knack for getting people to get along and making life a little more peaceful.

What's Your Element?

For our Baby Girl

One quick post!

Today is the 26th birthday of our Baby Girl!
Today is also her graduation day -- from Med School! :)

Happy Happy birthday and Congratulations to you our dearest Cha! You deserve all the best things in life :) Mwah!

Hope you could visit us sometime soon.

As always…

Kakanta muna ako ng:

It's alright, I'm okay
I think God can explain
I believe I'm the same
I get carried away

It's alright, I'm okay
I think God can explain
I'm relieved, I'm relaxed
I'll get over it, yeah

* I think God can explain by Splendor

Pinasaya ako ni Lord.
Kahit konting sandali...
Salamat po :)

~~~

I miss the people at the Nazareth Bahay Pag-ibig.
It’s been a year since I last saw them.
The calling is as persistent as ever.
I think I have to go back...

Pag-ibig Mo ang siyang nagmulat, nagakay sa liwanag
Pag-ibig Mo rin ang siyang tumawag upang maging alagad

Kaya ko bang maglingkod ng ganap?
Kayang iwanan ang lahat?
Ang tanging alam ko ako'y tinawag upang maging alagad.

* Binhi ng Pag-ibig by Fr. Mimo Perez

Mixing photos in Photoshop

Look at this:



I read the steps from Manila Bulletin's Tech101, today's issue.
I'm beginning to like photoshop. :)

Ang galing! we were doing this in our basic photography class (DevC 140) pero manual siyempre - 2 negatives on the top of each other tapos saka ipi-print. Tapos pwede na rin pala sa digital. :) Ang galing!

Sem ender post

Tapos na ang semester. Thank God! Parang this sem super harass na harass ako. Hehe! :) Before kasi, VCD and books lang ang kaagaw ng study time ko - naks! ndi ito totoo! walang study time :) cramming time madami! - ngayon with matching SFC meetings during weekdays and gimmick almost every weekend nabawasan na rin kahit cramming time.

Anyway, grades will be out in two weeks time and I could only hope for the best :)

For the mean time, I’ll be posting this (c/o Kuya John - printed at the back of his shirt):

THREE
(I don’t know who the author is)

I think that I shall never see
A grade as lovely as a three
A three that’s earned with blood and sweat
When failing is a serious threat
A three I’ve asked for God all day
Knowing praying is the only way
Exams are taken by fools like me,
But only God can give a three.

~~~

I was dead tired last Saturday for trying to beat the Portfolio II deadline. I barely slept Friday night worrying about it and then I had to work on it the whole day Saturday. At exactly 4pm, my brain automatically shut down. I had no choice but to go home and prepare for the 6:30pm mass service and practice with the SFC.

I guess I have to say it here…
Natutuwa akong kasama sila. After a year and a half of living here in Bicutan, I found new friends and acquaintances. I am happy knowing them. :)

~~~

Yesterday, my boss gave me his opinion with regard to my joining SFC. According to him, I am shrinking my world by joining a community. I am not mad at him for saying those things. I know he meant well.

The thing is, my world is already small. You see, before I join them, I only know, more or less, 25 people here in Bicutan - 19 from the office and 6 in our neighborhood.

I am not making it small. I am in fact expanding it the best way, I think, possible.

~~~

With all these happening, I guess God wants me to focus more on Him and other things in life. Although not much have changed, I still am the little scattered-brain girl I used to be; I now know that life is bigger than what I perceived it to be. And as silly as it may sound, I think the universe is just waiting for me to be adventurous enough and see things for myself. :)

Nowadays, when people ask me, “How are you?”
I say to them, “I’m good.”
with a smile. :)

I am a little bit hopeful now.

Palm Sunday

Today is Palm Sunday.

It is the start of the Holy Week.
Ash Wednesday on the other hand is the start of Lent.

Yesterday, during the mass (and also this morning), a group of young people dramatized the passion of Jesus Christ from the time he was presented to Pilate up to the time his body was carried to the tomb.

It was a tear jerking play. No doubt people were touched. I had to prevent myself from shedding a tear because it would be too embarrassing to cry. But it hit hard.

I remember watching The Passion of The Christ a year ago. I acquired a copy of the said film probably months before I had the courage to watch it. That is how coward I was (am). I don’t want to see Him suffer because of my sins. But I am glad I did watch it.

The anguish of knowing that he would suffer physically, emotionally and spiritually made Him very human. And yet He accepted everything openheartedly. He could have just said: “I don’t want to” but because of His love for us, He said “thy will be done.” And up to this very moment we can still feel the power of these very precious words – the wonder of His saving grace.

~~~

Today is also Jena's Birthday. :)
Cheers to you my cousin!
Long life and more love ;)
Mwah!

Do you believe in angels?

I do.
And I also believe that they,
led by my beloved Anica,
are pampering me. :)

~~~

I HAVE A DREAM
by ABBA

I have a dream, a song to sing
To help me cope with anything
If you see the wonder of a fairy tale
You can take the future even if you fail
I believe in angels
Something good in everything I see
I believe in angels
When I know the time is right for me
I’ll cross the stream - I have a dream

The plain one

You Are a Plain Ole Cup of Joe

But don't think plain - instead think, uncomplicated You're a low maintenance kind of girl... who can hang with the guys Down to earth, easy going, and fun! Yup, that's you: the friend everyone invites. And your dependable too. Both for a laugh and a sympathetic ear.

What Kind of Coffee Are You?

Choosy - me?

Men See You As Choosy

Men notice you light years before you notice them You take a selective approach to dating, and you can afford to be picky You aren't looking for a quick flirt - but a memorable encounter It may take men a while to ask you out, but it's worth the wait

How Do Men See You?

A lily

You Are A Lily

You are a nurturer and all around natural therapist. People see you as their rock. And they are able to depend on you. You are a soothing influence. You can make people feel better with a few words. Your caring has more of an impact than even you realize.

What Flower Are You?

Mizpah

Julia A. Baker

Go thou thy way, and I go mine,
Apart, yet not afar;
Only a thin veil hangs between
The pathways where we are.
And "God keep watch 'tween thee and me";
This is my prayer;
He looks thy way, He looketh mine,
And keeps us near.

I know not where thy road may lie,
Or which way mine will be;
If mine will lead thro' parching sands
And thine beside the sea;
Yet God keeps watch 'tween thee and me,
So never fear;
He holds thy hands, He claspeth mine,"
And keeps us near.

Should wealth and fame perchance be thine,
And my lot lowly be,
Or you be sad and sorrowful,
And glory be for me,
Yet God keep watch 'tween thee and me;
Both be His care;
One arm round thee and one round me
Will keep us near.

I sigh sometimes to see thy face,
But since this may not be,
I'll leave thee to the care of Him
Who cares for thee and me.
"I'll keep you both beneath my wings,"
This comforts, dear; One wing o'er thee
and one o'er me,
Will keep us near.

And though our paths be separate,
And thy way is not mine,
Yet coming to the Mercy seat,
My soul will meet with thine.
And "God keep watch 'tween thee and me,"
I'll whisper there.
He blesseth thee, He blesseth me,
And we are near.

Natatawa naman ako sa text ng classmate ko kagabi. Sabi niya regarding our assignment due on Saturday:

Kaya mo yan! Wala pa me nasisimulan eh. Take it easy. Get enough rest and be silly sometimes.

Near midnight na siya nagtext. Morning ko nabasa kasi nakatulog na ako from watching too much TV. :) Fulfilled na yung “get enough rest” thingie. Actually, there’s no need to say that kasi tutulog talaga ako kahit ano pang mangyari. I really have no plans of doing my assignment hanggang bukas!

With regard to being silly … I think I am already doing that. The problem is hindi nga lang sometimes – lagi-lagi. :)

Cramming na naman bukas!

(,'_')

I am evil.
The source of it this morning.
I had my family quarreled because of me
and my stupid sense of time.
Hay...naku.

In the end, ako pa yung kabati nila,
sila makaka-away...
hay...

I don't know how to reconcile them.. :,(

In the eye of a storm

calmness...

hours before the exam and
i am extremely calm.
bad...
i am used to feeling nervous before the exam
tapos...
biglang wala lang.
it scares the hell out of me...
tingan na lang natin kung ano mangyayari...

sige, alis na ako.
I'm off to LB.
wish me luck!

Little big issue

Whenever I study for my ENRM subjects, hina-high blood ako.

Kasi naman, why would some people, with all the resources the ALREADY have, still want to obtain more?! That is at the expense of our environment!

Nakakainis! Grrrr!

Naalala ko tuloy yung dati kong boss. He’s a known economist in the country. He was also the one who, in a way, influenced me to take up MA in Economics (which, I did not finish – thank you very much :). I’ve been under him for almost two years and I know that he is a good person.

But one day I overheard him talked to one of his students regarding the current economic situation of the country. Maya-maya narinig ko na ang mga katagang (not verbatim):

“I don’t know why they keep on raising the issue on environmental degradation. When our economy’s already in an excellent position, we can worry about the environment. Like in the case of the United States! But right now, allow us to use all the available resources to attain our goal of …”

Hanggang ngayon tanda ko pa! And I am a very forgetful person. But this one… hindi ko yata makakalimutan. It really drove me to the wall.

Nakakalungkot isipin, na pinagwawalang bahala lang ng ibang sector ng lipunan ang isyu tungkol sa kapaligiran. Eh para saan pa at nalikha ang salitang sustainable development?

But these success stories give me hope:

1. Chipko Movement in India – In the 1970s, women and children started practicing the hugging of trees to deter would-be tree cutters in India. “People protected the forest not because someone else was telling them they should, but because, they know they must do it if they are to survive.”
Source: ENRM 221 Module, Chapter 11

2. Yakap Sa Lawa Movement – In 2000, “some ten thousand San Pablo citizens gathered to protest the pollution and environmental degradation of Sampalok Lake. Students, clergy, housewives, religious and civic leaders, businessmen and government workers all trooped out to join “Yakap sa Lawa”, during which they “embraced” the lake, pulling forces together as they held hands in formation around the perimeter of the more than 100 hectare body of water.”
Source: http://www.bwf.org/bk/2k/02/29_02_lawa/lawa.html

~~~

Anyway, you probably found my topics getting weirder and weirder lately. Don’t worry I'll go back to my usual topics of discussion after April 1.

Exam day ko yan. Maghapon.
Need your prayers…
for miracle.
Thanks. :)

The moment as it comes

"Embrace it when it comes...even for just a moment."

The moment had passed.
I think I’ve embraced it as much as I could.
And in a way I am thankful...

"...even for just a moment."

Clumsy queen strikes again!

Friday. The right lense of my eyeglasses fell. Yup! It fell! Imagine the frustration of finding out that the reason why the world suddenly seemed blurred, even though I’m wearing my eyeglasses, was because the right lense fell. I really have no choice but to visit an optical the next day to get my glasses fixed.

Saturday. While waiting inside the optical, I asked the attending eye doctor if I could use contact lenses considering that I only have (OS) –1.25 and (OD) – 1.50. Sabi, OK naman daw. So I got a pair and tried them on.

The world became focused again. Hehe. :) And this time, I am comfortable unlike before when I got a pair na sobrang parang may sore eyes ako, not good. I just have to practice putting them on. Hirap pa kasing maglagay.

~~~

My mama, upon learning that I’m wearing contacts now, said: “hala ka! baka dumeretso yan hanggang sa likod ng mata mo!” Sabay tawa.

Mama ko ang kulit! :)

~~~

I like this:

Hope is not a granted wish or a favor performed… it is a zany, unpredictable dependence on a God who loves to surprise us out of our socks.
Max Lucado

Blowin' in the Wind

Bob Dylan

How many roads must a man walk down
Before you call him a man?
Yes, 'n' how many seas must a white dove sail
Before she sleeps in the sand?
Yes, 'n' how many times must the cannon balls fly
Before they're forever banned?
The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind,
The answer is blowin' in the wind.

How many times must a man look up
Before he can see the sky?
Yes, 'n' how many ears must one man have
Before he can hear people cry?
Yes, 'n' how many deaths will it take till he knows
That too many people have died?
The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind,
The answer is blowin' in the wind.

How many years can a mountain exist
Before it's washed to the sea?
Yes, 'n' how many years can some people exist
Before they're allowed to be free?
Yes, 'n' how many times can a man turn his head,
Pretending he just doesn't see?
The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind,
The answer is blowin' in the wind.

~~~

From the Daily Dig subscription:

A Mother's Plea

Marie Fatayi-Williams

There have been streams of tears, innocent tears. There have been rivers of blood, innocent blood. Which cause has been served? Certainly not the cause of God or Allah, because God Almighty only gives life and is full of mercy.

How much blood must be spilled? How many tears shall we cry? How many mothers' hearts must be maimed? It's time to stop and think. We cannot live in fear because we are surrounded by hatred. Hatred begets only hatred. It is time to stop this vicious cycle of killing. We must all stand together, for our common humanity.

She lost her only son in the London bombings…

Source: Press conference near Tavistock Square, London, July, 11 2005

Tamad

I'm so over mega tamad!!!
super dupper over tamad!

Hindi pa rin tapos ang portfolio ko.
The sem's almost over!
Grabe!!!!

Napapapraning na ako!
hay...

Forgiveness

Lately, I’m in a habit of listening to AM radio before going to bed to buzz off the unnecessary (a.k.a. scary) night sounds. :) Last night, as the program host bade his final adieu, he read the gospel for the next day (which is today) as his parting words to the listeners.

The gospel talks about forgiveness - timely, first, because it is Lent and second, there are at least three people whom I cannot bring myself to forgive.

Matthew 18: 21 - 35
21 Then Peter came up and said to him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?"
22 Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven.

According to the host, forgiveness is a very hard thing to do. This is because it entails loving the person who has caused you so much pain and suffering, may it be physically or worse emotionally. It also necessitates forgetting the offense made.

Probably, that is why it is so hard to forgive noh? Kasi, when someone hurts me really bad, I tend to hold on to that hurt or else I’ll fall apart and be vulnerable again. But then again, we were promised that He would catch us each time we fall – no matter how many times and no matter how deep. And putting that in mind makes me feel very secure and light.

I don’t know when I will be able to say: “I’ve already forgiven you” – completely but I know that in God's time, I’ll be able to do just that. :)

Samu't-saring kwento

Lisieux reigns!

We had a blast last February 28 during the Alay Musika XXI concert! I saw my batchmates and fellow alumni during and after the concert. Our part (The Wind beneath My Wings) went well naman. The residents were fabulous. The choreography was great; they’re very graceful :) In short it was really a wonderful night.

Picture with my batchmates (Kenosis '97):



~~~

KAPUSO for a day – only!

One of the many requirements in DevC 206 was to visit a radio station. Don, my classmate, was kind enough to organize a trip to the Inquirer and Radio Veritas last month. Sadly, due to a very tight schedule, I wasn’t able to join them.

Fortunately, since there were several of us who weren’t able to join the 1st batch, they tasked me to organize the second one.

I first called DZMM (ABS-CBN 2) since Ate Baby was there. But when I inquired they told me that we have to pay Php110.00 per head for a studio tour. When I told my classmates, they said in DZBB (GMA 7) it’s for free. Kaya dun na lang kami.

Of course, I couldn’t help but compare. I’ve been to ABS several times and it’s my first time to be in GMA. Ok naman. I just noticed that there were fewer people in GMA. Kasi sa ABS, lobby ka pa lang, super dami na ng tao. :)

We met Mike Enriquez, Arnold Clavio, Ali Sotto, and Joe Spinner. I had a feeling that everybody’s kind there. :) Kasi naman we were accommodated properly and every question asked were answered.

PERO siyempre, paglabas na paglabas ng gate, I am a KAPAMILYA through and through :)




~~~

Second Destination

Rizal Park a.k.a. Luneta
SFC Bicutan Choir Fellowship
March 12, 2006

Pictures: